UPSC CSE 2021 Main GS Paper 1
Question - There arose a serious challenge to the democratic state system between the two world wars. Evaluate the statement.
Answer
The statement is valid and reflects the various political, economic, and social factors that threatened the stability and survival of democracies during the interwar period (1918-1939). Some of the key challenges faced by democracies during this time are as follows:
The rise of totalitarian regimes: After the First World War, many countries witnessed the emergence of authoritarian and dictatorial regimes that challenged the democratic ideals and values. For example, in Germany, Adolf Hitler and his Nazi Party came to power in 1933 and established a fascist dictatorship that suppressed civil liberties, persecuted minorities, and pursued aggressive expansionism. In Italy, Benito Mussolini and his Fascist Party ruled with an iron fist and allied with Nazi Germany. In Japan, the militarist government pursued imperialist ambitions in Asia and the Pacific. In the Soviet Union, Joseph Stalin consolidated his power and eliminated his rivals through purges and terror. These regimes posed a serious threat to the security and interests of democracies around the world.
The economic crises: The interwar period was marked by several economic crises that undermined the confidence and prosperity of democracies. The most notable one was the Great Depression, which began in 1929 and lasted until the late 1930s. The Great Depression was triggered by the collapse of the stock market in the United States, which had a ripple effect on the global economy. It caused widespread unemployment, poverty, deflation, and social unrest. Many democracies struggled to cope with the economic hardships and adopted protectionist and isolationist policies. Some also turned to radical ideologies such as communism or fascism for solutions. The economic crises also increased international tensions and conflicts over trade, tariffs, debts, and reparations.
The social unrest: The interwar period also witnessed various social movements and conflicts that challenged the status quo and demanded change. Some of these movements were inspired by nationalism, socialism, feminism, pacifism, or anti-colonialism. For example, in India, Mahatma Gandhi led a mass movement of non-violence and civil disobedience against British colonial rule. In China, Mao Zedong led a communist revolution against the nationalist government of Chiang Kai-shek. In Spain, a civil war broke out between the republican government and the fascist rebels supported by Germany and Italy. In Ireland, a war of independence was fought against British rule. These movements and conflicts created instability and violence in many parts of the world and challenged the legitimacy and authority of democracies.
Therefore, the statement is accurate and reflects the various challenges that democracies faced between the two world wars. These challenges not only threatened their internal cohesion and external security but also paved the way for the outbreak of the Second World War.